Naturex and Milne collaborate on clinical research and the commercialization of Concord grape extracts

10/13/2017

Avignon, France and Prosser, WA USA, Oct 13, 2017.

Naturex’s Open Innovation Program Ingenium is continuing efforts to bring new science-based ingredients to market. Its latest initiative has led to the signing of a collaboration agreement with Milne Fruit Products, Inc. to jointly fund human clinical research utilizing Milne’s Concord grape aqueous extract. Concord grape (Vitis labrusca) is a north American fruit, whose unique grapes are rich in health-promoting polyphenols.

Traditionally used in food and beverage applications, the Concord grape has lacked a corporate champion focused on the nutritional supplement market with the ability to significantly drive its global health message.

Seeking human clinical research proposals

Naturex and Milne intend to lead this initiative and are currently seeking proposals from interested researchers targeting healthy ageing and quality of life with an emphasis on cognitive performance, digestive, metabolic, cardiovascular, or immune health.

“There has been some promising research on Concord grape to date, but most of the research is focused on the juice which may vary in its phytochemical composition and is not always convenient for consumers to take on a daily basis. Together with Milne, we intend to advance the clinical research on Concord grape by utilizing an extract which is standardized to high levels of polyphenols and can be taken in a low convenient dose,” said Dr. Emilie Fromentin, Naturex-DBS Director of Research and Development.

“Milne has spent many years developing Concord grape extracts and we’re excited to work with Naturex to unlock its untapped potential,” said Michael Sorenson, President and General Manager of Milne.

Naturex sources, manufactures and markets natural specialty ingredients for the food, health and cosmetic industries. As the Natural Maker, the company actively supports the global shift to natural by directly addressing key consumer expectations through an offer built on two main focus areas: My Natural Food and My Natural Selfcare. Naturex’s portfolio includes colors, antioxidants, specialty fruits & vegetables, phytoactives, and numerous other plant-based natural ingredients, designed to help its customers create healthy, authentic and effective products.

The Group’s strong commitment to sustainability, continuous innovation process, and the talent of its people are at the heart of its success.

Founded in 1956, Milne is the industry leader in creating fruit and vegetable juices and purees, custom blends and liquid extracts for food, beverage and supplement manufactures worldwide. Milne’s commitment to sustainable growing and production practices is evidenced through its consistent high quality of ingredient products. Focused on creating healthy, clean label ingredients through innovation, Milne continues to expand its portfolio of unique ingredients.

Through growing partnerships within the agricultural community, Milne sources the highest quality raw ingredients in the industry.

Headquartered in Prosser, Washington, United States, Milne is a privately held company.